Yes! You Can Apply for PR While Studying in Canada
Canada encourages international students to stay permanently after graduation. While you can’t get Canada PR while studying directly , you can start the process early by:
✔️ Gaining Canadian work experience (part-time/co-op)
✔️ Improving your CRS score (language tests, education)
✔️ Applying for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Key Benefit:
- No need to wait until graduation—you can begin PR preparations immediately!
Best Canada PR while studying Pathways for International Students
1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – Fastest Route
Eligibility:
- 1 year of skilled work experience in Canada (NOC 0, A, or B)
- CLB 5+ (English/French)
- Valid PGWP or work permit
How to Qualify While Studying:
- Work part-time (20hrs/week) during studies
- Switch to full-time work after graduation
Processing Time: 6-8 months (IRCC Portal)
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Student Streams
Many provinces offer PR pathways specifically for students:
| Province | Program | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Masters/PhD Graduate Stream | No job offer needed |
| British Columbia | International Graduate Stream | Job offer required |
| Manitoba | International Education Stream | Study + work in Manitoba |
Pro Tip: Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream invites students with CRS 400+.
3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) → PR
Steps:
- Graduate from a DLI-approved institution (Check Here)
- Apply for PGWP (valid for up to 3 years)
- Work full-time in a skilled job (NOC 0, A, B)
- Apply for Express Entry or PNP
PGWP Approval Rate: 95% for eligible graduates
How to Boost Your PR Chances While Studying?
1. Work Part-Time in a Skilled Job
- Eligible Roles: Research assistant, IT support, accounting clerk
- Max Hours: 20hrs/week during semesters, full-time in breaks
2. Improve Your CRS Score Early
- Take IELTS/CELPIP (Aim for CLB 9+)
- Learn French (TEF Canada adds 50 CRS points)
- Get Canadian work experience (even internships count!)
3. Apply for a Spouse Open Work Permit
- If married, your spouse can work full-time in Canada, boosting family CRS points.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Working illegally (beyond 20hrs/week) → Can ban you from PR
Choosing a non-PGWP eligible school → Verify DLI List
Waiting until graduation → Start CRS prep early
FAQs: Canada PR while studying
Q1. Can I apply for PR before graduating?
Yes! You can submit an Express Entry profile anytime if you meet eligibility (e.g., 1 year work experience).
Q2. Does part-time work count for PR?
No, but it helps build Canadian experience for PGWP applications.
Q3. What’s the fastest PR route after studies?
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – 6-8 months processing.
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